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Assault Charge Laid Against HRP Officer

Sep

26

The province's independent Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) today released a report announcing the laying of a charge of assault against Cst. Derek Fish, a 47-year-old member of the Halifax Regional Police (HRP).

On May 4, 2017, SiRT commenced an investigation into a complaint by a male that a member of the Halifax Regional Police (HRP) had deleted video from his cell phone. The male stated the video was of his friend being arrested outside of Cheers Bar and Grill on Grafton Street, Halifax on April 27, 2017. While that investigation concluded without charges, during the investigation, SiRT became aware of additional information relevant to the arrest of the friend. It was determined that the circumstances of that arrest raised issues which were of a significant public interest and on June 5, 2017, SiRT assumed jurisdiction over the investigation into the circumstances of the arrest. That investigation was completed on September 7, 2017.

Today, SiRT laid one charge of assault against Cst. Fish, alleged to have occurred on April 27, 2017. Cst. Fish will be summoned to appear at the Halifax Provincial Court on November 2, 2017.

SIRT is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia. Investigations are under the direction and control of independent civilian director Ron MacDonald, who is solely responsible for decisions respecting the laying of any charge.